Wing Commander Andrew Stewart gave a fascinating film show about the Red Arrows to the WI members and friends – including seven brave males. 

He had formerly been the leader of the 10 RAF pilots who make up the prestigious team and later their manager.

His flying career came to an end when he was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis. 

The visitors responded magnificently when asked for donations to the charity in lieu of an entrance fee. 

Andy explained how the team works as an ambassador for the UK and is responsible for attracting sales from abroad. 

The five aircraft at the front of the familiar diamond nine formation are known as ENID after Enid Blyton's famous five. 

All the pilots focus on points on the lead aeroplane and their neighbour who may be only four and a half feet away. 

They rely on the 40 strong ground crew who maintain the planes and there is intense competition to be part of the remarkable team.

Members were in favour of the resolution 'SOS for Bees' as outlined by Hilary Maunders, although there were some against and some abstentions as the ladies felt the wording was flawed.

There was a display of some of the products that are used in everyday life and have honey or beeswax in their make-up.

The Horseshoe Group has organised a Petanque evening at the Sun Inn Cottesmore, on Monday June 1.  There is no need to book.

The committee meets at 7.30pm on Tuesday 2, at Pat Lake's home, in Harborough Close.


Age Concern

Fewer people than usual attended the enjoyable May Lunch of chicken casserole and Eve's pudding at the village hall on Wednesday. 

All villagers of pensionable age are welcome.  Please give your names to Helen Taylor on 474800 if you would like to join.


Church Matters

An Oakham Team Communion Service was held at St Andrew's Church, on Thursday evening, to celebrate Ascension Day. 

The Rev James Saunders was the celebrant and the Rev Jay Ridley preached the sermon; the intercessions were led by the Rev Lee Francis-Dehqani. 

The choir was joined by choir members from churches in the Team Ministry.

There was a Prayer Meeting in the morning. The next one is with the Bamber's on Thursday June 4, at 36 Hall Close.

The Rutland Theological Society meets at 7.30pm, in Oakham Methodist Church, tonight when 'Why Bother with the Old Testament?' is the question to be answered.  Visitors of all denominations are welcome.

The church jumble sale takes place in the village hall on Saturday. Articles for sale may be delivered from 10am to 12 noon.  Doors open at 2pm and admission will cost 20p.

On Sunday, there is no service at St Andrew's. The choice of services are; said Holy Communion at Oakham at 8am, sung version at Langham at 10.30am and choral evensong, using the Book of Common Prayer, in Teigh, at 6pm.

Rev Maureen Jones will conduct the 11am service at Whissendine Methodist Church.

There is a Patronal Service at Teigh on Trinity Sunday June 7 at 10am.


Further Information

The garage sale at 18 Mill Grove begins at 10am on Saturday. Mrs Thorne will talk about her 'Travels in North America' at the Happy Circle meeting on Wednesday June 3 after a salad lunch.

'The Age of Stupid' starring Pete Postlethwaite will be screened at the Vale of Catmose Film Club, on Thursday June 4, at 7.30pm.  Ring 01572 722286 or 725904 for more details.

The Annual Steam Rally is at the Sports Club on Saturday June 6 and Sunday June 7.

A new parish councillor is needed. Applications have to be in by June 4. More information in the Grapevine magazine.